To be weighted down means to feel burdened by emotional or mental stress, often caused by significant problems, responsibilities, or duties. It describes a state where a person feels heavy with worry and unhappiness.
Understanding "Weighted Down"
Based on the definition provided, the phrase "/weɪ/ to make a person feel worried and unhappy because of problems, responsibilities, and duties" precisely captures the meaning of being weighted down. It's a metaphorical weight, not a physical one, that affects a person's emotional and mental state.
Causes of Feeling Weighted Down
The reference highlights common causes for this feeling:
- Problems: Difficult situations or challenges in life.
- Responsibilities: Duties or obligations that one must handle.
- Duties: Tasks or actions that are required.
These elements can combine to create a sense of pressure and burden, leading to feelings of worry and unhappiness.
Examples in Context
The reference provides illustrative examples:
- "weighed down by all her new responsibilities" - This suggests that taking on significant new duties can make someone feel heavy with concern and less joyful.
- "Too much responsibility when too young can weigh down on a child." - This indicates that an excessive burden, especially at a sensitive age, can negatively impact a person's emotional well-being.
These examples show how responsibilities and duties can manifest as a psychological weight, affecting how a person appears or feels.
The Impact
Feeling weighted down can manifest in various ways, often making a person appear older or visibly stressed, as seen in the first example from the reference. It signifies that the emotional burden is having a noticeable effect on the individual.
In essence, being weighted down is the experience of having life's challenges and obligations press upon you, leaving you feeling heavyhearted and dispirited.
